Kilcrea Friary: A Tranquil Medieval Sanctuary in County Cork
Explore the peaceful ruins of Kilcrea Friary, a 15th-century Franciscan monastery steeped in history and surrounded by tranquil Cork countryside.
Kilcrea Friary, founded in 1465 by Cormac Láidir MacCarthy, is a beautifully preserved ruined Franciscan abbey near Ovens, County Cork, Ireland. This historic site features a striking slender tower, cloisters, and burial grounds including those of notable figures like Art Ó Laoghaire. Set in a peaceful valley, the friary invites visitors to explore its medieval architecture and reflect on centuries of Irish history amidst serene natural surroundings.
A brief summary to Kilcrea Friary(Mainistir Chill Cré)
- Kilcrea, Co. Cork, IE
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear sturdy footwear as the site’s stone floors and stairs can be uneven and slippery.
- Visit both Kilcrea Friary and the nearby Kilcrea Castle for a fuller medieval experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the friary’s striking tower and atmospheric cloisters, especially in soft daylight.
- Respect the site’s status as a burial ground and maintain a quiet, contemplative demeanor.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Car
Driving from Cork city, the journey to Kilcrea Friary takes approximately 25 to 35 minutes via the N22 and local roads. Parking is available near the site but limited, so arrive early during peak times. No parking fees apply.
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Bus
Regional bus services run from Cork city to Ballincollig, approximately 5 km from Kilcrea Friary. From Ballincollig, a taxi or local shuttle can be arranged to reach the friary. Bus travel time is around 40 to 60 minutes, with fares typically between €4 and €7.
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Taxi
Taxis from Cork city to Kilcrea Friary take about 25 to 35 minutes, costing roughly €30 to €40 one way. This option is convenient if public transport connections are limited or for flexible timing.
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Walking
For those staying nearby in Ovens village, walking to Kilcrea Friary is feasible within 20 to 30 minutes over gently undulating terrain. The path is unpaved in parts, so suitable footwear is recommended.
Kilcrea Friary(Mainistir Chill Cré) location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Kilcrea Friary(Mainistir Chill Cré)
Origins and Founding Legacy
Kilcrea Friary was established in 1465 by Cormac Láidir MacCarthy, the sixth Lord of Muskerry, as a monastery for the Observant Franciscans. It was built on the grounds of an earlier Christian site associated with Saint Cyra (or Cré), a revered 6th-century abbess who reputedly founded a nunnery nearby. The friary’s Irish name, Prióireacht Chill Chré, translates to "Church of Cré," honoring this early spiritual heritage. MacCarthy’s patronage was motivated by both religious devotion and the strategic need to protect the area from English incursions during a turbulent period in Irish history.Architectural Features and Layout
The friary’s layout is characteristic of Irish mendicant monasteries, featuring a nave and chancel, a south-side transept, and cloisters to the north. The cloister ranges, though roofless, remain mostly intact, enclosing what would have been a peaceful courtyard. A distinctive slender tower rises from the crossing, accessible by steep winding stairs, once serving as a belfry. Surrounding the tower are the remnants of dormitories, day rooms, kitchens, and potentially an infirmary, reflecting the friary’s role as a self-sustaining religious community.Historical Trials and Continuity
Despite multiple attacks and sackings by English forces in the 16th century, notably in 1542 and 1584, Kilcrea Friary remained in use until the early 17th century. The friary was repaired several times, including a significant restoration in 1604, and was still active with friars recorded as late as 1621. After the dissolution of the monasteries, it gradually ceased religious operations but continued as a burial ground, preserving its sacred significance through the centuries.Resting Place of Notable Figures
Kilcrea Friary is the burial site of Cormac Láidir MacCarthy himself, who was killed in battle in 1494 and interred in the chancel. It also holds the tomb of Art Ó Laoghaire, an 18th-century Irish Catholic captain famously commemorated in a lament by his widow, Eibhlín Dubh Ní Chonaill. These graves connect the site deeply to Ireland’s cultural and historical narrative, making it a place of remembrance and reflection.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Today, Kilcrea Friary stands as a serene and evocative ruin nestled in the valley of the River Bride. Its quiet cloisters, ancient stone walls, and surrounding countryside create a tranquil atmosphere that invites contemplation. Visitors can explore the architectural details, imagine the lives of the friars, and appreciate the site's enduring spiritual and historical resonance. The nearby Kilcrea Castle, just across a field, complements the experience with its own medieval charm.Preservation and Cultural Importance
Kilcrea Friary is a protected National Monument under the care of the Office of Public Works. While unguided, the site is well-preserved and accessible year-round. It serves as a tangible link to medieval Ireland’s religious life and the resilience of its communities. The friary’s continued use as a burial ground underscores its lasting importance to local heritage and Irish history.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Original Walls of Saint Mary of the Isle
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Medieval City Wall (Balla Cathrach na Meánaoise)
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Nano Nagle Bridge
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National Monument - Cork
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S Mall
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Father Mathew Statue
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Eamon de Valera Bridge
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Stone of Destiny - Site of Battle of Kinsale
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Whitecastle
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Kinsale Pottery | Pottery & Arts Centre Kinsale
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Dundanion House Bridge
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Blackrock Castle Observatory
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The K Kinsale
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Desmond Castle
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The Old Presbytery
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kilcrea Castle(Caisleán Chill Chré)
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Carrigadrohid Castle
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Mullinhassig Wood & Waterfalls, Aghavrin
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Top of the World Five County View
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Blarney Stone
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Blarney Castle & Gardens
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Rock Close
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Witch’s Yew Tree
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Blarney Castle & Gardens(Gairdíní Chaisleán na Blarnan)
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Rumley's Open Farm
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Blarney Woollen Mills
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Wilton Shopping Centre
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Old Cork Waterworks Experience
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Cork City Gaol
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Fitzgerald Park
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Essential places to dine
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The Model Farm
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Orchids Restaurant
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Perrotts Garden Bistro Restaurant
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The New Yorker Bar & Restaurant
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The River Club
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Paradiso
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Franciscan Well Brewery & Brewpub
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Ichigo Ichie Bistro and Natural Wine
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Dwyers of Cork
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Liberty Grill
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The SpitJack Cork
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Tony's Bistro
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Brick Lane
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51 Cornmarket
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Castlewest Shopping Centre
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Snout
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Erin Giftstore
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Glucksman shop
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Cork Vintage Quarter
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St Anthony Stores
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Handcrafts Cork
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Agora
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MrPRICE Cork City
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Primetime Streetwear
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The Retro Workshop Cork
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St Augustine's Shop
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Casa Craft
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Peacock & Ruby
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The Cornmarket Centre
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Gaia
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The Alibi Bar + Kitchen
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The Silly Goose
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Impala
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The Liberty Bar X Resistance
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The Raven Bar
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The Black Dog
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Edison
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An Bróg Bar + Kitchen
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Popscene Late Bar & Club
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Mutton Lane Inn
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The Thomond Bar
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Le Chateau
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The Hi-B Bar
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No.76
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Le Cabaret, Cork
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The Secret Garden
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Voodoo Rooms
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Eclipse Nightclub
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Vibe Gay Nightclub Cork
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Dali
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The Crane Lane Theatre
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Angels Cork t/a The Asylum Bar
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The Hiland
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ExpressDjs
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Tanyard
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Cotter's Bar & Chaser's Nightclub
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Scruffy's Bar Killarney
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The Shire Bar & Cafe
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
